FERNANDO MORIENTES was flying into Liverpool today (Wednesday) to sign for the Reds - facing a race against time to be given a weekend debut against Manchester United.

FERNANDO MORIENTES was flying into Liverpool today to sign for the Reds - facing a race against time to be given a weekend debut against Manchester United.

Liverpool and Real Madrid both confirmed today they had finally reached a transfer agreement.

The 28-year-old Real Madrid striker (left) was boarding a plane in Spain today to prepare for a medical before putting pen to paper on the #6.3m Anfield move.

That will probably take place tomorrow, giving the Reds less than 24 hours to register him with the FA and allow him to feature in Liverpool's lunchtime clash on Saturday.

Madrid said in a statement today: "Real Madrid and Liverpool have reached an agreement for the transfer of Fernando Morientes for a total price of 9million euros (#6.3million).

"This afternoon the player will travel to Liverpool to undergo a medical that he will have to take tomorrow morning.

"The club has also confirmed today that Fernando Morientes, accompanied by (vice-president) Emilio Butragueno and (sporting director) Arrigo Sacchi will hold a press conference to announce his departure to the Premier League."

Morientes' agent Gines Carvajal said: "The player has signed a four and a half year contract and he is delighted to be joining as great a club as Liverpool."

Liverpool confirmed: "A fee has been agreed with Real Madrid for the transfer of striker.

"Personal terms must now be agreed and a medical arranged before the deal is completed."

At a press conference today at Real's Las Rozas training ground, Morientes spoke of his delight, and admitted he would relish the chance to make his debut for the Reds against United.

"Going to Liverpool was a decision my family and I thought about a lot," said Morientes.

"I had several offers but the best for me and my family was Liverpool's. "Now all I can do is hope that the medical goes well and I am registered in time to play on Saturday.

"You can't ask for more than a debut against Manchester United."

Morientes revealed he had turned down a late offer from French champions Lyon to move to the Barclays Premiership.

Boss Rafa Benitez indicated last night that he wanted Morientes to play against United.

"I am not sure how the registration works in England," he said "but we are hopeful that he can be ready for the weekend. We will use the player as soon as possible."

Transfers cannot be concluded subject to medical any longer, so Liverpool will have to complete the medical examination of the player before the deal is finalised.